WAWONA, Calif. — More than 100 pastors and department directors from the Central California Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church gathered at Camp Wawona from Feb. 18-20 for a ministerial retreat focused on fellowship, reflection, and spiritual renewal. It was the first retreat under newly elected president Ricardo Viloria, marking a fresh direction for pastoral leadership and church ministry.
“For me, seeing the pastors smile again—truly rest and be poured into—was incredible,” Viloria said. “They told me how refreshing and supportive this time was. We want to create a healthy culture where our pastors thrive. When pastors thrive, our churches and our conference thrive too.”
Participants heard from our own local church pastors, making the meeting especially meaningful. They engaged in worship, and enjoyed moments of fellowship. While administrative items were set aside, the team emphasized personal well-being, collaboration, and prayerful planning for the future.
“We just started this new chapter a few weeks ago,” said Anil Kanda, Vice President for ministries. “It was urgent to get to a good place with our pastors—fostering a healthy environment not just for them, but for their families, churches, and our entire conference.”Rob Colon, pastor of the Sunnyvale Church, echoed these sentiments. “From the start, leadership made it clear they wanted us to thrive,” he said. “Their message was, ‘We’re here to help you and your churches be healthy.’ Mission accomplished.”The retreat schedule included morning and evening programs, fellowship meals and activities for spiritual and relational growth. A closing session on Thursday featured a collective prayer, uniting pastors and leaders under a shared vision for the ministry ahead.
“This is just the beginning of a new chapter,” Viloria said. “We look forward to seeing how God will lead as we unite under a common purpose—one of growth, service, and uplifting our communities in Christ.”
Written by Justin Kim